As the historic 150th Open returns to the Home of Golf in St Andrews in just a few weeks, here’s how you can experience the iconic golf destination firsthand. From legendary tee times to dram pours, here’s everything a golf aficionado needs to know when planning a trip to St Andrews, Scotland.
Where to Play
When in the Home of Golf, one must play at the Home of Golf. Among St Andrews Links’ seven courses, there are notable standouts.
- The Old Course: The Old Course at St Andrews Links is where the game was first played 600 years ago and is the most iconic golf course in the world. The Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker are recognized across the globe, yet the greatest feature of the Old Course is that despite its grand status it remains a public golf course, open to all. There are a number of ways to book a tee time, but most notably, those interested can try their luck in the infamous ballot system.
- The New Course: The oldest ‘new’ course in the world, the second course at the Home of Golf was built by the Keeper of the Green, Tom Morris in 1895 and it was imaginatively named to differentiate it from its famous neighbor. Boasting undulating fairways and challenging greens, the New Course is a classic test of links golf. Advance bookings for the New Course (min two golfers) can be made at least two days ahead and the full green fee is payable in advance.
- The Eden Course: Only slightly more forgiving than its contemporaries on the seaward side of the Links, the Eden Course was built in 1914 by Harry S. Colt whose use of natural boundaries and severe bunkers provides a course full of character. Advance booking enquiries for the Eden Course (min two golfers) can be made at least two days ahead.
- “If playing the Old is like having dinner with the Queen, playing the Eden is like riding a roller coaster: wild, spirited, and breathtakingly fun!” – Dave Klekota
- The Himalayas Putting Course: The St Andrews Ladies’ Putting Club, better known to visitors from around the world as The Himalayas, is an 18-hole putting course that lies between the famous Old Course and the spectacular West Sands. Originally situated where Rusacks St Andrews currently stands, the Himalayas was used by caddies during their down time and – to many of their chagrin – a few ladies when the course was quiet. Following growing tension, the Himalayas was created by Old Tom Morris in its current location as a “miniature links” nine-hole course. Today, the putting course is the perfect place to practice your short game or for those new to the game.
Where to Dine
The notable foodie destination is in no short supply of divine dining experiences. From traditional Scottish fare to iconic restaurants, here are the restaurants you should try when visiting the Home of Golf.
- 18– Named for its unbeatable views of the 18th hole of The Old Course, 18 is a rooftop and Scottish restaurant specializing in the very best seasonal local produce. Led by Derek Johnstone, one of Scotland’s most renowned chefs and inaugural winner of MasterChef: The Professionals, the menu focuses on open flame cooking and innovative game and seafood dishes. Situated on the fourth floor of the new extension, 18 features a full glass window, showcasing panoramic views across the Old Course, West Sands and the North Sea. Look up to the ceiling and you will notice all the winners of previous Open championships.
- Jigger Inn– This historic building dates back to the 1850s, when it was the stationmaster’s lodge. Today, The Jigger Inn is home to golfing memorabilia, crackling open-hearth fires, home-cooked food and a superb selection of Scottish beers. The pub’s own Jigger Ale is available only at The Jigger Inn, St Andrews and at The Horse & Plow at Forbes Five Star-awarded The American Club in Kohler, Wisconsin, USA.
- Haar– Known as St Andrews’ most famous seafood restaurant, this relaxed fine dining establishment will take you on a journey from the moment you enter. Senses are stimulated from Chef Dean Banks’ sustainable and locally-sourced ethos — from interior construction to the food served on the plates. The food combined with a re-imagined fine dining experience creates a welcoming atmosphere, this in turn heroes the food, the tastes and the incredible locally sourced produce.
- Forgan’s– Forgan’s has adopted a simple ethos: to deliver quality Scottish produce-led food and drinks in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The proprietor, Robert Forgan, was one of the most successful and well liked men in town, and thus the restaurant and bar was named in honor of a St Andrews hero. At its original site in St Andrews, Forgan’s has developed a reputation for hosting exclusive meals in its private “Bothies, “which each have their own distinct character, such as The Reading Room, The Snug or The Living Room. Housed in a former “cleek factory”, some of the best golf clubs in the world were once manufactured on this site.
Where to Drink
In Scotland, enjoying a dram or a pint is not a pastime – it’s a way of life. From historic pubs to local favorites, here are our suggestions for the best watering holes in St Andrews.
- The Keys Bar– Originally called Stewarts Hotel in the mid-18th century, The Royal and Ancient Golf Club held their spring and autumn dinners and balls on this site. Members were piped from outside the pub down to the Old Course for the start of play. The Keys is one of the last independent family-run pubs left in St Andrews. When visiting, note the seemingly endless choice of dram. Each bottle adorns a colored ribbon, denoting the price of dram from a price key nearby.
- One Under Bar– After taking on the Valley of Sin on The Old Course’s 18th hole, pop into One Under Bar, only a few meters from the pin. The extensive drinks menu includes fine ale, stout, red or white wine, a world-class dram or bespoke cocktails, while the food menu features recognizable favorites such as burgers and fish and chips, and even haggis balls.
- The Dunvegan Pub– Located just around the corner from the Royal & Ancient Golf Club and the R&A World Golf Museum, The Dunvegan Pub is covered from ceiling to floor with world famous golfers that have visited the Dunvegan over the past 25 years, including 35 Major Champions and golfing celebs from sport & film. The most important pictures, though, are Dunvegan friends who have enjoyed their time with us during their pilgrimage to St Andrews.
Where to Dream
Looking for a hotel that is as legendary as Old Tom Morris himself? Travelers should book Rusacks St Andrews, set along the legendary Old Course in a renovated iconic 1800s building. Overlooking the 1st and 18th holes of the course, including the Valley of Sin, the hotel is steeped in history and stands as a living museum and monument to golf and its founders. The property is a golf explorer’s most sought-after playground with 123 guest rooms, all with design touches to reflect the destination such as subtle golf ball motifs in the carpet and tee insignias in the woodwork. Need an activity? Check out the rooftop putting green or Eden Mill gin-making experience with the hotel’s own Gin Concierge. Those looking for deals can book the new 150 package, complete with overnight stay, entry to the R&A World Golf Museum for two, GBP150 (about USD182) dining credit, in-room golf amenities including Marine & Lawn branded golf tees, a ball marker, Titleist prov1 golf balls, and more. Rates start at GBP405 (about USD548) per night. The 150 Package is valid until March 31, 2023. Book using promo code RUSACKS150.
Image credit: Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts
